It's the 1970s, and mild-mannered former MI6 agent George Smiley (Gary Oldman) is struggling with forced semi-retirement when he's suddenly recalled. It seems certain that there's a double-agent working for the Soviets right at the top of the 'Circus' - MI6's HQ in London's Cambridge Circus.

Smiley's task is to find out which of his trusted former colleagues has been betraying Britain at the highest level for so many years.

He soon identifies four suspects, but a tangled web of friendships and rivalries muddies the waters. Acclaimed Swedish director Tomas Alfredson ('Let the Right One In') helms this new adaptation of John le Carre's magnificently plotted, twisting, turning espionage thriller.

Its cast is practically an A-Z of great British acting talent, including Tom Hardy, Mark Strong, Benedict Cumberbatch, John Hurt, Ciaran Hinds, Gary Oldman and Oscar-winner Colin Firth.

Screenplay: Peter Straughan, Bridget O'Connor

Distributor: Optimum

You should see it because: It's a brilliant story with a to-die-for cast - already being positioned for awards season glory.

See it if you liked: The Constant Gardener (2005), Syriana (2005), The Good Shepherd (2006)